Buying a home in Tennessee? Here is your ultimate insurance checklist
All you need to know!
Buying a home in Tennessee is exciting — whether you’re settling down in the rolling hills of Murfreesboro, the lively streets of Nashville, or the quiet charm of Franklin. But before you sign those closing papers, there’s one important piece of the puzzle you don’t want to overlook: insurance.
From protecting your investment to meeting lender requirements, understanding your insurance needs before buying a home can save you time, money, and stress. Use this Tennessee homebuyer insurance checklist to make sure you’re covered from day one.
๐ 1. Start with Homeowners Insurance
Most mortgage lenders in Tennessee require homeowners insurance before closing — but even if you’re paying cash, it’s essential.
A standard homeowners policy typically covers:
- Dwelling coverage – Repairs or rebuilds after damage from fire, wind, or other covered perils
- Personal property
– Your belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics, etc.)
- Liability protection – If someone is injured on your property
- Additional living expenses – If you need to relocate temporarily after covered damage
๐ก Tip: In Tennessee, make sure your policy’s dwelling coverage matches the rebuild cost, not the purchase price. Construction costs can fluctuate, and you want enough coverage to rebuild completely if disaster strikes.
๐ 2. Check for Flood Risk
Many Tennessee homes — even those outside FEMA flood zones — are at some risk of flooding due to heavy rains and unpredictable weather.
Standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, so it’s smart to look into a separate flood insurance policy.
You can purchase flood coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
Flood insurance can take up to 30 days to go into effect, so don’t wait until you move in!
๐ง Bonus tip: Ask your insurance agent for a flood zone determination before closing. It’s a small step that can prevent major headaches later.
โก 3. Consider Sewer Backup or Water Damage Add-Ons
Water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims in Tennessee. Even a small plumbing leak or sewer backup can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
Look for optional endorsements (add-ons) that protect against:
- Sewer or drain backup
- Water seepage from foundations or basements
- Appliance or HVAC leaks
These aren’t usually included in basic policies, but they’re worth every penny for peace of mind.
๐ฅ 4. Ask About Wind, Hail, and Tornado Coverage
Tennessee weather can be unpredictable — strong winds, hailstorms, and the occasional tornado can all cause significant property damage.
Most standard policies do include wind and hail coverage, but check your deductible carefully. In some areas, wind damage may have a percentage-based deductible (e.g., 2% of your dwelling coverage), which can mean paying more out-of-pocket.
๐งฐ 5. Bundle for Savings
Buying a home often means juggling multiple new bills. The good news? Bundling can help.
If you combine your home and auto insurance with the same provider, you can usually save 10–25% on your premiums. It also simplifies your payments and claims process.
๐งพ 6. Review Personal Property Coverage
Before moving in, take inventory of your valuables:
- Jewelry
- Electronics
- Musical instruments
- Collectibles
Some items have coverage limits under a standard policy. If you have high-value belongings, ask your agent about a personal property endorsement or scheduled coverage to protect them fully.
๐ก 7. Check Liability and Medical Coverage
Liability coverage protects you if someone gets hurt on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.
Most homeowners start with $100,000 in liability coverage, but consider increasing it to $300,000–$500,000 — especially if you have significant assets or host guests frequently.
๐ 8. Do a Policy Review Before Closing
Once you’ve chosen a home and an insurance provider,
sit down with your agent to:
- Review replacement cost estimates
- Confirm deductibles and exclusions
- Make sure your lender’s requirements are met
Having your coverage lined up early avoids last-minute surprises at closing.
โ Final Thoughts
Buying a home in Tennessee is a big milestone — and protecting that investment starts with the right insurance. From homeowners and flood coverage to liability protection and add-ons, each piece plays a role in keeping your home (and your wallet) safe.
An experienced local insurance agent can walk you through the details, tailor coverage to your area, and make sure you’re fully prepared for Tennessee’s unique weather and property risks.
Need help reviewing your home insurance options?
Our Tennessee-based team is here to help you compare quotes, find discounts, and make sure your new home is protected from day one.
๐ Contact us today to build your perfect homeowners insurance plan.
